December 13, 2008

Tech's Crabtree, Baylor's Smith named All-American

Fresh off becoming the first player to win the Biletnikoff Award _ which goes to the nation's top wide receiver _ in back-to-back seasons, Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree added another prestigious honor to his mantel.

On Saturday afternoon, Crabtree was named to the AT&T ESPN All-American team. The 6-3, 214-pound sophomore from Dallas Carter had another terrific season this year with 93 catches for 1,135 yards and 18 touchdowns.

In 25 career games, Crabtree has 227 receptions for 3,097 yards and 40 touchdowns. His next game will be Jan. 2 when Tech (11-1) plays Mississippi (8-4) in the Cotton Bowl in his home town.

After that, Crabtree has a major decision to make. He can return and play for the Red Raiders next year, or declare for the NFL Draft.

Underclassmen have until Jan. 15 to submit their name for the NFL Draft. Crabtree, who was named All-American last year as a redshirt freshman, said he plans to make his decision after the game against Ole Miss.

Meanwhile, Smith is a massive 6-6, 305-pound senior from Dallas W.T. White who helped Baylor finish as the third-best rushing team in the Big 12 this year with 195.8 yards per game. Behind Smith, who started 39 consecutive games, Baylor scored 29 rushing TDs this year, including at least one rushing TD in all 11 games this season.